The fretboard is the long, flat part of a stringed instrument, such as a guitar or bass, where the player presses down the strings to create different notes. It is typically made of wood and features metal strips called frets, which divide the fretboard into sections. Each fret corresponds to a half-step in musical pitch, allowing musicians to play various scales and chords. On the fretboard, players use their fingers to press the strings against the frets, changing the vibrating length of the strings. This action produces different sounds, enabling the performance of melodies and harmonies. Understanding the layout of the fretboard is essential for mastering stringed instruments.